나는 그들에게 이렇게 일렀다. “날마다 해가 높이 뜰 때까지는 예루살렘 성문을 열어서는 안 된다. 그리고 문지기들이 근무를 끝내기 전에 성문을 닫고 빗장을 지르도록 하여라. 또한 예루살렘 성에 살고 있는 사람들을 경비원으로 뽑아 세워라. 그 사람들 가운데서 얼마는 정한 곳에서 보초를 서게 하고 나머지 사람들은 그들의 집 가까이에서 보초를 서게 하여라.”
이 구절의 의미
Nehemiah tells the people of Jerusalem not to open the city gates until it is very hot outside. He also says they should watch over the city and protect it by stationing guards. The key message is about the importance of security and watchfulness.
어린이를 위한 설명
Imagine you're in charge of a big playground and you want to make sure it's safe. You tell the kids to keep the gates closed until it's really sunny out, and to have a buddy system where each kid watches over their part of the playground. That's what Nehemiah did for Jerusalem.
역사적 배경
Nehemiah, a Persian official, wrote this portion of the Bible. It was during the time when the Israelites were returning from exile and rebuilding Jerusalem. The audience was the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and the cultural setting was one of rebuilding and restoring a city that had been destroyed.
오늘의 적용
In a modern scenario, this verse can remind us of the importance of security measures in our homes and communities. Just like Nehemiah instructed the people to guard the city, we can take steps to ensure our neighborhoods are safe and well-protected.
Why did Nehemiah tell them not to open the gates until it was hot?
Nehemiah advised this to ensure the safety of the city. Opening the gates too early could expose the city to potential threats. The heat of the sun would signal a safer time to open them.
What does it mean to 'bar the doors'?
To 'bar the doors' means to secure them with a heavy bar or lock, ensuring that no one can enter without permission, thus protecting the city from intruders.
How does this apply to community leadership?
Leaders should prioritize the safety and security of their communities. This verse highlights the importance of setting up systems for protection and ensuring that everyone plays a role in safeguarding the community.
Why appoint watches over the city?
Appointing watches ensures constant vigilance. This practice helps to detect and respond to threats quickly, contributing to the overall security and peace of the city.